'Mega Meth' lab found in Belmont-co.

Published: July 15, 2014 1:00 PM

BELLAIRE -- A "mega meth lab" discovered at a vacant house in the Bellaire area Sunday night is being called the largest single methamphetamine lab bust in the history of Belmont County.

Law enforcement reports 71 single-pot meth labs were discovered inside the home on High Ridge Road off Route 214.

The meth lab was discovered at the home after a passerby alerted authorities regarding an open door at the long-empty residence. Officers responded to the residence at approximately 10:30 p.m. and discovered the operational meth lab.

The operation was reportedly so large, the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation did not have the equipment necessary to render the area safe, so a private contractor was contacted and responded to the scene.